In a statement welcoming Yusuf Maart, SV Ried’s sporting director, Wolfgang Fiala, detailed the attributes that make the former Kaizer Chiefs captain an excellent fit for the club.
SV Ried unveiled Maart shortly after Chiefs announced his departure on Tuesday, bringing an end to his three-season tenure with the Soweto giants. During his time with Amakhosi, Maart’s performances were a mix of highs and lows, but he concluded his stint on a successful note.
He played a crucial role in helping Chiefs end their decade-long trophy drought last season, notably scoring the winning goal in the 2025 Nedbank Cup final against his former club, Orlando Pirates.
The newly promoted Austrian side secured Maart on a deal that runs until 2027, with an option for a further extension. This move marks Maart’s first venture into European football. He leaves Chiefs having made 95 appearances across all competitions, contributing seven goals and eight assists since joining from Sekhukhune United in 2022.
Fiala of Ried shared his delight regarding Maart’s decision to join the team, stating that the club had been closely monitoring the midfielder for some time.
SV RIED SPORTING DIRECTOR PRAISES MAART’S COMPLETE MIDFIELD PACKAGE
Fiala expressed strong conviction that Maart’s attributes align seamlessly with SV Ried’s strategic playing philosophy. He further elaborated on Maart’s impressive and well-rounded skill set, describing him as a complete midfielder.
The sporting director also highlighted Maart’s ability to dictate the flow of the game, his prowess in duels, his work rate, and his vision for his teammates. Beyond his technical abilities, Maart’s leadership qualities were also a factor, with Fiala believing they will greatly benefit the team’s younger players.
“We are very happy that Yusuf has chosen SV Oberbank Ried. We have been watching it for a long time and are convinced that it fits perfectly with our game idea,” said Fiala.
“Yusuf is a very complete midfielder: He can direct the game, is strong in the duel, has a high willingness to run and also has a good eye for his teammates.
“He also brings leadership qualities that will do our young team good. Especially his international experience and his mentality of always wanting to win were decisive factors for us in this commitment,” added Fiala.
Meanwhile, Maart expressed his excitement about embarking on this new chapter in his career upon his unveiling. The ex-Sekhukhune skipper said that he is eager to gain new experiences both on and off the pitch.
“This is a great opportunity for me to play here in Europe. I am very much looking forward to gaining new experiences,” declared Maart. “I want to do my best in every game, be a great person for the team on and off the court. I know Austrian football as highly intense and body-oriented. Ried is known for the great atmosphere in the stadium and its fans.”
RELATED STORY: Official: Yusuf Maart leaves Kaizer Chiefs